Best Chattanooga to Oakland Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
If you're moving from Chattanooga to Oakland and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,440 mile move from Tennessee to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 18 Chattanooga to Oakland moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is OCD Moving Services LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Chattanooga compared to Oakland. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.
Best Chattanooga to Oakland Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Boundless Moving & Storage | 9.33 | 9.36 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Smooth Moving & Storage | 8.93 | 8.63 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Fairprice Movers | 8.87 | 9.12 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Piano Movers Plus | 8.83 | 8.17 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Chattanooga to Oakland
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,440 miles from Chattanooga, TN to Oakland, CA will cost on average $3,856 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Chattanooga to Oakland move is roughly $9,316. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,586 | 300 ft³ | 8.62 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,856 | 450 ft³ | 8.57 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,389 | 750 ft³ | 8.52 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,316 | 1100 ft³ | 8.47 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,471 | 1600 ft³ | 8.42 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,065 | 1800 ft³ | 8.37 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Oakland to Chattanooga guide.
Compare the 5 Best Chattanooga to Oakland Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
OCD Moving Services LLC
5914 Cobblestone Ct
El Sobrante, CA, 94803
About OCD Moving Services LLC
For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2597230 / 911812 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,000 (2022) |
Boundless Moving & Storage
5595 N. Lee Hwy
Cleveland, TN, 37312
About Boundless Moving & Storage
Boundless Moving is a local, family-owned moving company near Chattanooga, TN. Established in 2015, it is located in Cleveland and offers...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2798532 / 934519 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 8 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 358,520 (2022) |
Smooth Moving & Storage
3620 Trousdale Dr
Nashville, TN, 37204
About Smooth Moving & Storage
Smooth Moving & Storage is a full-service moving and storage company based in Nashville, Tennessee, offering professional, reliable, and stress-free moving...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Residential moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2472874 / 1244900 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2023) |
Fairprice Movers
Berkeley, CA, 94720
About Fairprice Movers
Established in 2012, Fairprice Movers is a moving company headquartered in San Jose, California. The company offers a highly personalized moving...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial and Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2192738 / 768242 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 89,000 (2022) |
Piano Movers Plus
3889 Hixson Pike
Chattanooga, TN, 37415
About Piano Movers Plus
Piano Movers Plus is a locally owned and operated moving company based in Chattanooga, TN, serving the surrounding cities such as...
Services
- Damage free piano moving
- Hard to move items moving
- Household moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 849413 / 393793 Authorized For HHG Carrier/Shipper |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 184,000 (2023) |
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Chattanooga vs. Oakland Neighborhood Comparison
Preparing to relocate can be daunting, especially when moving to an unfamiliar city. To ease this transition, we offer a detailed comparison of the local neighborhoods between Chattanooga, TN & Oakland, CA , helping you find areas that resonate with your lifestyle and preferences. By equating popular neighborhoods in Chattanooga with their Oakland counterparts, we hope to make you feel right at home in your new city.
| Chattanooga | Oakland | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Northshore | Rockridge | Vibrant shopping, dining |
| St. Elmo | Montclair | Cozy, hillside community feel |
| Downtown Chattanooga | Downtown Oakland | Urban, cultural hub |
| Southside | Temescal | Trendy, with a vibrant arts scene |
| Highland Park | Grand Lake | Diverse, with historic homes |
| Signal Mountain | Claremont | Exclusive, with panoramic views |
| Red Bank | Piedmont Ave | Quaint, family-friendly |
| East Brainerd | Glenview | Residential, with a small-town vibe |
| Ooltewah | Laurel | Suburban, community-oriented |
| Hixson | Fruitvale | Multicultural, family-oriented |
For those enchanted by the vibrant arts and dining scene of Chattanooga's Southside, Oakland's Temescal neighborhood will feel like a natural continuation, boasting an eclectic array of restaurants, indie shops, and galleries such as the Temescal Alley. Similarly, if the hillside, community-centric vibe of St. Elmo has been your haven, Montclair in Oakland will captivate you with its serene, wooded streets and charming local establishments like the Montclair Village. For the urbanites drawn to the bustling heart of Downtown Chattanooga, Downtown Oakland offers a similar energy with cultural staples such as the Oakland Museum of California and historic Fox Theater, ensuring the urban culture and convenience you love are just steps away.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Chattanooga to Oakland
Embarking on a journey from Chattanooga, TN to Oakland, CA represents a significant life change, full of complexities and contrasts. This guide aims to help you weigh the cons of leaving Chattanooga against the pros of moving to Oakland and vice versa, offering an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. Understanding both sides will ensure you make an informed decision tailored to your lifestyle and aspirations.
Chattanooga, TN- Smaller tech scene
- Less cultural diversity
- Higher humidity
- Fewer entertainment options
Oakland, CA- Larger tech industry
- Greater diversity
- Better climate
- Rich arts scene
Oakland, CA- Higher cost of living
- Less green space
- Higher crime rates
- Heavier traffic
Chattanooga, TN- Lower cost of living
- Scenic outdoor activities
- Close-knit community
- Easy road trips
Moving from the scenic views and outdoor adventures around Chattanooga to the bustling, diverse cityscape of Oakland brings a mix of changes. Chattanooga's affordability and easy access to nature, like the paths of the Tennessee Riverpark or the trails of Lookout Mountain, contrasts with Oakland's vibrant arts scene, with venues like the Fox Theater and the annual Oakland Art Murmur. While you'll find the cost of living higher in Oakland, the city's greater diversity and rich cultural experiences, from exploring the neighborhoods of Temescal to enjoying the waterfront at Jack London Square, offer a dynamic lifestyle. It's a shift from Chattanooga's more laid-back, community-focused living to Oakland's energetic and progressive environment.
Chattanooga vs. Oakland Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Chattanooga, TN, and Oakland, CA, is essential for understanding the diverse food cultures in these cities. As you prepare to move, knowing what culinary delights await can help you transition into your new local scene seamlessly.
| Chattanooga | Oakland | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pulled Pork BBQ | California Burrito |
| Most popular meat dish | Smoked Brisket | Grilled Octopus |
| Most popular street food item | Chattanooga Dogs | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich | Avocado Toast |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Chattanooga, TN, barbecue is king, and you'll find mouthwatering options like Allen's Smokehouse featuring traditional Southern BBQ. The city is known for its rich, smoky flavors and hearty meat dishes, such as smoked brisket. Chattanooga also offers an embracing but burgeoning scene for vegan diners, with signature dishes like the BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich.
On the other hand, Oakland, CA, emphasizes fresh, local ingredients with a strong influence from its diverse population. The California Burrito and unique takes on traditional tacos represent the fusion of cultures. Vegan options are plentiful, with trendy foods like Avocado Toast being a staple in the local diet. The city's health-conscious mindset is reflected in its high-quality dining options spanning across neighborhoods such as Uptown and Jack London Square, where you can find iconic restaurants like Commis and Brown Sugar Kitchen. Whether your preference leans towards meat dishes or vegan delights, Oakland's food scene is vibrant and diverse, offering something for every palate.
Chattanooga vs. Oakland Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering delicious eats. This restaurant comparison chart is designed to help Chattanooga transplants find their culinary equivalents in Oakland, making the transition feel a bit more like home. Whether you’re craving high-end dining, casual bites, or iconic eats, this guide offers a starting point to explore Oakland's diverse food scene.
| Chattanooga | Oakland | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Alleia | Belotti Ristorante e Bottega | Authentic Italian cuisine with a modern twist. |
| Easy Bistro & Bar | Wood Tavern | Offers a cozy atmosphere with upscale, contemporary American dishes. |
| Main Street Meats | The Butcher's Son | Delicious plant-based take on classic deli favorites, showcasing creativity. |
| Tony’s Pasta Shop & Trattoria | Dopo | Known for handmade pasta and a casual, yet intimate dining experience. |
| Public House | Drake's Dealership | A lively spot for American pub fare and a wide selection of beers. |
| Aretha Frankenstein’s | Sequoia Diner | A neighborhood favorite for breakfast, known for its homemade bread and jams. |
| Urban Stack | TrueBurger | Offers a straightforward menu of burgers and shakes made with quality ingredients. |
| Boathouse Rotisserie & Raw Bar | Jack's Oyster Bar & Fish House | Features fresh seafood dishes in a relaxed waterfront setting. |
| St. John’s Meeting Place | Commis | An elevated dining experience with a focus on seasonal and local ingredients. |
| Hennen's | Wood Tavern | Upscale yet comfortable setting offering fine American cuisine. |
Upon moving from Chattanooga to Oakland, you'll discover that though the landscapes differ vastly, the love for good food is a common thread. For example, Alleia's loyal patrons will find a similar charm and devotion to Italian cuisine at Belotti Ristorante e Bottega. Meanwhile, those who cherish the casual yet sophisticated vibe and the farm-to-table approach of Easy Bistro & Bar will be pleased with Wood Tavern, where the menu is equally thoughtful and locally inspired. And for early risers in Chattanooga who miss the quirky charm and hearty breakfasts of Aretha Frankenstein’s, Oakland's Sequoia Diner serves up a reminiscent experience with its emphasis on scratch-made essentials and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, proving that no matter where you are, the quest for delightful, soul-satisfying food can always lead to a place that feels like home.
Ready to start your move?
Chattanooga vs. Oakland Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. Comparing Chattanooga, TN to Oakland, CA in terms of housing gives you a clearer picture of what to expect in terms of cost, architecture, and lifestyle. This information can significantly impact your decision-making process.
| Comparison | Chattanooga | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian and Craftsman | Spanish and Mid-Century Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Large yards, mountain views | Proximity to tech hubs, sustainable living features |
When moving from Chattanooga to Oakland, expect significant differences in the housing landscape. In Oakland, the architecture leans more towards Spanish and Mid-Century Modern styles, reflecting California's rich cultural heritage and modernist influences. The city's higher walkability and bikeability scores align with its more urban, compact layout, allowing for easier access to local amenities and possibly reducing reliance on a car. On the flip side, Chattanooga's real estate often highlights the natural beauty of the area with larger yards and mountain views, catering to those who prioritize space and a connection to nature. Deciding between the two cities depends on your lifestyle preferences: whether you're drawn to the bustling urban environment and tech-oriented culture of Oakland or the scenic, spacious living of Chattanooga.
Chattanooga vs. Oakland Weather Considerations
If you're planning a move, understanding how the weather compares between your current city and your new home is crucial. From Chattanooga, TN to Oakland, CA , this comparison will highlight key weather differences to prepare you for your relocation.
Chattanooga, TN
Oakland, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Chattanooga, TN
Oakland, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Chattanooga, TN
Oakland, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Chattanooga, TN
Oakland, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Chattanooga | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good to Moderate | Moderate to Poor |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Storms | Earthquakes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Chattanooga to Oakland, you'll find significant differences in climate that may influence your lifestyle. Chattanooga experiences distinct seasons with a relatively high summer heat and moderate winters, while Oakland enjoys a milder climate year-round, with less humidity and more sunshine days. The drastic change in annual rainfall and lack of snow in Oakland compared to Chattanooga might also mean a change in your outdoor activities and gardening habits. Additionally, understanding the primary natural disaster risks and air quality issues in Oakland is important for preparing your new home and lifestyle adjustments.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chattanooga to Oakland
Moving from one city to another requires understanding how your financial situation might change. This comparison between Chattanooga, TN and Oakland, CA, focuses on the cost of living, taxation levels, and income averages. It's essential to grasp these differences to anticipate how your lifestyle adjustments might look financially.
| Comparison | Chattanooga | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $55,065 | $82,236 |
| Cost of Living Index | 91.1 | 139.1 |
| State Income Tax | 0 | 9.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.74 | 0.79 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.25 | 9.6 |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Health Care, Education | Technology, Healthcare, Retail |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | Noticeable | Significant |
When you move from Chattanooga to Oakland, you'll notice a significant jump in the cost of living index—Oakland ranks much higher than Chattanooga. While the average household income in Oakland is also higher, the increase may not fully cover the higher expenses you'll face, including a considerable state income tax that doesn't exist in Tennessee. Additionally, the shift in predominant industries might necessitate a career shift or adjustment for some, given Oakland's strong push towards technology and retail. Understanding these economic and social climates will be crucial for a smoother transition.
Chattanooga vs. Oakland Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Chattanooga & Oakland, aiding in understanding the cultural contrast you might experience. Whether you're curious about local governance, community priorities, or the prevailing religious climate, this guide will help you navigate these aspects of your potential new home.
| Chattanooga | Oakland | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Conservative | Leans Liberal |
| Local Politics | Republican-Dominated Council | Democratic-Dominated Council |
| Religion | Majority Christian | Diverse; less religiously affiliated |
When considering a move from Chattanooga to Oakland, it's crucial to note the distinct political and religious landscapes you'll encounter. Chattanooga's conservative lean is mirrored in its predominantly Republican local governance, reflecting a community that may prioritize traditional values. Religious life in Chattanooga is predominantly Christian, with many churches serving as community hubs. In contrast, Oakland's liberal lean significantly influences its local policies and social environment, governed by a Democratic-majority council. The city prides itself on its rich diversity, which is also reflected in its religious landscape—Oakland hosts a variety of faiths, with a noticeable portion of the population having no religious affiliation. This shift from a more homogenous to a diverse and pluralistic environment could be a significant change for new residents.
Chattanooga vs. Oakland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Chattanooga, TN, to Oakland, CA, involves adapting to new traffic and transportation landscapes. This comparison aims to give you a clearer picture of what your daily commute and traffic will be like between Chattanooga & Oakland.
| Comparison | Chattanooga | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 35 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Difficult | Possible |
In Chattanooga, the average commute time is shorter, and traffic congestion is generally milder than in Oakland. However, Chattanooga's public transit options are more limited, making it more challenging to get by without a car. On the other hand, Oakland offers robust public transit services, including BART, buses, and ferries, significantly facilitating car-free living. The higher traffic congestion in Oakland reflects its dense urban environment, but the diverse transportation options ease the impact on daily commutes.
Additional Resources
Chattanooga Moving Services
Popular Chattanooga to California Routes
Popular Moving Resources
